Ramsgate's new ferry service delayed

THE eagerly anticipated high speed ferry service from Ramsgate to Boulogne will not launch this Saturday.

Euroferries boss Per Staehr said the service will not start on Saturday November 14, the proposed launch date for the Fred Olson-owned Bonanza Express catamaran earmarked for the route.

Mr Staehr said: “The service will not start on Saturday” but would not give a reason why.

Mr Staehr maintained the new service will go ahead despite the set back.

In a later statement, a company spokesman confirmed: "Euroferries has regrettably had to delay its high speed cross channel service launch scheduled for the 14th November due to hampered final stage operations.

"Euroferries apologises for any inconvenience caused to its customers and assures them that it is their foremost intention to resolve this matter swiftly allowing the service to commence.

"All Euroferries bookings affected by this matter have the option of either receiving a full refund or alternatively receiving complimentary first class upgrades for an alternative date of travel."

Passengers who are booked on this weekend's ferries will be contacted by email to arrange their refund.

Thanet council leader Sandy Ezekiel has denied that the problems are due to delays in essential maintenance work yet to be carried out at the Port of Ramsgate.

He said: "The terminal is ready and the dredging is just a two-day job."

Were you booked on the service? Tell us what you think by emailing richard.spillett@krnmedia.co.uk or phone 01843 578154.